Albion goalkeeper picture shifts as Max O'Leary signs and Josh Griffiths draws interest | OneFootball

Max O'Leary has signed a new three-year deal at Albion, clarifying part of the goalkeeping picture after his January arrival, but uncertainty still surrounds the position.

According to ExpressAndStar.com, the 29-year-old initially joined on a short-term contract that expired this summer before committing long term. Boss James Morrison now has a decision to make over his No.1 for next season.

Josh Griffiths began last season as first choice, then former boss Ryan Mason dropped him at QPR in early December for Joe Wildsmith, who struggled. Mason restored the academy graduate for his final game, a late defeat to Leicester.

Eric Ramsay’s early weeks brought little improvement, highlighted by a 5-0 loss to Norwich, then Albion moved for O'Leary on a short-term deal. The former Bristol City keeper progressed through Ashton Gate, lost his place to Manchester United loanee Radek Vitek, and sought regular football with six months left on his deal.

His debut at Derby featured a glaring mistake, yet he settled impressively as the defence firmed up. Five straight clean sheets formed part of eight shutouts in 16 league matches, with a standout display at Blues. Some supporters remain unsure he is the definitive first choice.

Griffiths, 24, was reportedly the subject of Stoke interest over the weekend. Under contract until next summer, he could seek a regular No.1 role elsewhere, and Albion may view him as a way to raise funds.

If both stay, competition should be fierce and Morrison will need to make a call. Wildsmith, 30, has been released. Behind them, prospects Ben Cisse and Joe Wallis, both 20, are pushing through, with Cisse mulling new terms and Wallis triggering an extension, while Brian Okonkwo, 20, has been offered a deal and Louis Brady, 19, has had his extension triggered.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com